Since mid-August of this year, three horses and one group of mosquitoes from Elkhart County have tested positive for EEE virus. No human cases of EEE virus disease have been reported in Indiana in 2019; however, three human cases have been reported in southwest Michigan this year, one of which was fatal.

“EEE, or triple-E, virus is rare but extremely serious. It can cause long-term complications and even death,” said Jennifer Brown, D.V.M., M.P.H., state public health veterinarian at the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). “You can protect yourself from EEE virus and other viruses by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites whenever you spend time outdoors. You can also reduce the risk for yourself and your neighbors by eliminating mosquito breeding sites from your property.”

State health officials recommend the following preventive measures:

Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are active (especially late afternoon, dusk to dawn and early morning)

Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on clothes and exposed skin

Cover exposed skin by wearing a hat, long sleeves and long pants in places where mosquitoes are especially active, such as wooded areas

Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home

You can eliminate mosquito breeding sites from your property by doing the following:

Discard old tires, tin/aluminum cans, ceramic pots or other containers that can hold water

Repair failed septic systems

Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers left outdoors

Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed

Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains

Frequently replace the water in pet bowls

Flush ornamental fountains and birdbaths periodically

Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with predatory fish

While rare, EEE virus can cause serious illness and has a fatality rate of about 33 percent in people. Many people who recover may still experience long-term complications. Symptoms of EEE virus disease include chills, fever, body aches and joint pain. Some people develop a more severe form of the disease that affects the nervous system and causes encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). People who are younger than 15 years and older than 50 years are at the greatest risk of severe disease if infected with EEE virus. People who think they may have EEE virus disease should see a healthcare provider.

Since mid-August of this year, three horses and one group of mosquitoes from Elkhart County have tested positive for EEE virus. No human cases of EEE virus disease have been reported in Indiana in 2019; however, three human cases have been reported in southwest Michigan this year, one of which was fatal.

“EEE, or triple-E, virus is rare but extremely serious. It can cause long-term complications and even death,” said Jennifer Brown, D.V.M., M.P.H., state public health veterinarian at the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). “You can protect yourself from EEE virus and other viruses by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites whenever you spend time outdoors. You can also reduce the risk for yourself and your neighbors by eliminating mosquito breeding sites from your property.”

State health officials recommend the following preventive measures:

Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are active (especially late afternoon, dusk to dawn and early morning)

Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on clothes and exposed skin

Cover exposed skin by wearing a hat, long sleeves and long pants in places where mosquitoes are especially active, such as wooded areas

Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home

You can eliminate mosquito breeding sites from your property by doing the following:

Discard old tires, tin/aluminum cans, ceramic pots or other containers that can hold water

Repair failed septic systems

Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers left outdoors

Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed

Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains

Frequently replace the water in pet bowls

Flush ornamental fountains and birdbaths periodically

Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with predatory fish

While rare, EEE virus can cause serious illness and has a fatality rate of about 33 percent in people. Many people who recover may still experience long-term complications. Symptoms of EEE virus disease include chills, fever, body aches and joint pain. Some people develop a more severe form of the disease that affects the nervous system and causes encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). People who are younger than 15 years and older than 50 years are at the greatest risk of severe disease if infected with EEE virus. People who think they may have EEE virus disease should see a healthcare provider.

Dawn Risten, Food Service Inspector / Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, stated in a prepared statement that the American Grill, 835 N. State Road 25, was closed September 11, due to operating without a Food Service Permit. To open a new restaurant in Fulton County, the Indiana State Department of Health rules and Fulton County Food Ordinance have to be followed. In order for American Grill to open they need to correct all violations from previous inspection, have a pre-operational inspection and obtain an annual Food Service Permit from the Fulton County Health Department.

Risten's release goes on to say that there is no time frame from the Fulton County Health Department to have this done nor have they been given a time frame from the owner of the American Grill that it will be ready for the pre-operational inspection to obtain a Food Service Permit at this time.

]]>A Rochester restaurant was closed by the Fulton County Health Department.

Dawn Risten, Food Service Inspector / Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, stated in a prepared statement that the American Grill, 835 N. State Road 25, was closed September 11, due to operating without a Food Service Permit. To open a new restaurant in Fulton County, the Indiana State Department of Health rules and Fulton County Food Ordinance have to be followed. In order for American Grill to open they need to correct all violations from previous inspection, have a pre-operational inspection and obtain an annual Food Service Permit from the Fulton County Health Department.

Risten's release goes on to say that there is no time frame from the Fulton County Health Department to have this done nor have they been given a time frame from the owner of the American Grill that it will be ready for the pre-operational inspection to obtain a Food Service Permit at this time.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461806
Wed, 11 Sep 2019 08:06:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461806Governor Eric J. Holcomb is directing flags at state facilities across Indiana to be flown at half-staff in honor of Patriot Day.

Flags should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, September 11, 2019.

Gov. Holcomb also asks businesses and residents statewide to lower their flags to half-staff in remembrance of the victims of the terror attacks on September 11, 2001.

]]>Governor Eric J. Holcomb is directing flags at state facilities across Indiana to be flown at half-staff in honor of Patriot Day.

Flags should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, September 11, 2019.

Gov. Holcomb also asks businesses and residents statewide to lower their flags to half-staff in remembrance of the victims of the terror attacks on September 11, 2001.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461691
Tue, 10 Sep 2019 13:54:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461691The trial for a woman charged with striking four children and killing three in Fulton County remains on target for October.

Fulton County Prosecutor Michael Marrs sent word to the media a few more motions will be filed and that the October 15 trial date remains on schedule. Marrs says that he is under a gag order involving the case and couldn't offer further comment on Tuesday's pre-trial conference at the Fulton County Courthouse.

Shepherd allegedly struck and killed Alivia Stahl, 9, and her twin half brothers, Xzavier and Mason Ingle, age 6. Another boy, Maverik Lowe, 11, was also hit, but survived.

Shepherd faces over 20 years in prison if convicted.

]]>The trial for a woman charged with striking four children and killing three in Fulton County remains on target for October.

Fulton County Prosecutor Michael Marrs sent word to the media a few more motions will be filed and that the October 15 trial date remains on schedule. Marrs says that he is under a gag order involving the case and couldn't offer further comment on Tuesday's pre-trial conference at the Fulton County Courthouse.

Shepherd allegedly struck and killed Alivia Stahl, 9, and her twin half brothers, Xzavier and Mason Ingle, age 6. Another boy, Maverik Lowe, 11, was also hit, but survived.

Yellowfin tuna steaks from the seafood counter or seasoned yellowfin tuna steaks in store-prepped styrofoam trays may cause scombroid poisoning, according to the FDA.

The tuna steaks have sell-by dates between Aug. 29 and Sept. 14.

Scombroid poisoning is caused by eating fish that has not been properly refrigerated or preserved. Improper storage causes bacteria to grow and produce Scombroid toxin, which can cause symptoms similar to an allergic reaction.

Symptoms usually develop within an hour of eating contaminated fish and can include:

- Flushing of the face

- Headache

- Itching

- Blurred Vision

- Abdominal Cramps

- Nausea

- Diarrhea

If you develop symptoms of scombroid poisoning, call your doctor. Most people recover within several hours, but symptoms can linger for several days.

Kroger has agreed to remove all yellowfin tuna steaks from their stores in Indiana, according to the FDA. If you bought the tuna steaks in question, you should throw them away immediately.

]]>If you recently bought yellowfin tuna steaks at a Kroger store in Indiana, you might need to throw them away.

Yellowfin tuna steaks from the seafood counter or seasoned yellowfin tuna steaks in store-prepped styrofoam trays may cause scombroid poisoning, according to the FDA.

The tuna steaks have sell-by dates between Aug. 29 and Sept. 14.

Scombroid poisoning is caused by eating fish that has not been properly refrigerated or preserved. Improper storage causes bacteria to grow and produce Scombroid toxin, which can cause symptoms similar to an allergic reaction.

Symptoms usually develop within an hour of eating contaminated fish and can include:

- Flushing of the face

- Headache

- Itching

- Blurred Vision

- Abdominal Cramps

- Nausea

- Diarrhea

If you develop symptoms of scombroid poisoning, call your doctor. Most people recover within several hours, but symptoms can linger for several days.

Kroger has agreed to remove all yellowfin tuna steaks from their stores in Indiana, according to the FDA. If you bought the tuna steaks in question, you should throw them away immediately.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461553
Tue, 10 Sep 2019 07:24:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461553The Pulaski County Courthouse opened normally Monday following a Friday that was anything but normal.

A suspicious device was located inside the courthouse Friday morning by the county’s maintenance department. It was found concealed in a public restroom in the courthouse basement.

The Indiana State Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) responded. No explosives were found.

The rest of the courthouse was searched with nothing suspicious found.

During the investigation, Pulaski County offices at the courthouse and annex were closed for employee safety.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Winamac Police Department at (574) 946-4800 or the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office at (574) 946-6655.

]]>The Pulaski County Courthouse opened normally Monday following a Friday that was anything but normal.

A suspicious device was located inside the courthouse Friday morning by the county’s maintenance department. It was found concealed in a public restroom in the courthouse basement.

The Indiana State Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) responded. No explosives were found.

The rest of the courthouse was searched with nothing suspicious found.

During the investigation, Pulaski County offices at the courthouse and annex were closed for employee safety.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Winamac Police Department at (574) 946-4800 or the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office at (574) 946-6655.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461552
Tue, 10 Sep 2019 07:22:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461552The choice of the man who left Indiana’s District 18 Senate seat was named Monday to succeed him.

The Indiana Republican Party caucus at the Miami County Community Building was held Monday to fill the District 18 seat left empty by Randy Head. Head stepped down to become Chief Deputy Prosecutor of Pulaski County.

Cass County Councilwoman Stacey Donato received the 42nd vote needed in a fifth and final vote of precinct committeemen. The evening started with 82 precinct committeemen signed in so candidates had to receive 50%, plus one vote, to win. If no candidate received a majority vote on the first ballot, the person with the lowest number of votes dropped out, and voting continued until a winner was declared.

She appreciates the support and endorsement from the 11-year state senator, Head.

Donato will now fill the remainder of the term and says State Representative Ethan Manning from Peru will be there to help her get up and running. Then, she can run decide to run for the office in the next election cycle.

District 18 serves Miami, Cass and Fulton counties, and portions of Carroll, Kosciusko and Marshall counties.

]]>The choice of the man who left Indiana’s District 18 Senate seat was named Monday to succeed him.

The Indiana Republican Party caucus at the Miami County Community Building was held Monday to fill the District 18 seat left empty by Randy Head. Head stepped down to become Chief Deputy Prosecutor of Pulaski County.

Cass County Councilwoman Stacey Donato received the 42nd vote needed in a fifth and final vote of precinct committeemen. The evening started with 82 precinct committeemen signed in so candidates had to receive 50%, plus one vote, to win. If no candidate received a majority vote on the first ballot, the person with the lowest number of votes dropped out, and voting continued until a winner was declared.

She appreciates the support and endorsement from the 11-year state senator, Head.

Donato will now fill the remainder of the term and says State Representative Ethan Manning from Peru will be there to help her get up and running. Then, she can run decide to run for the office in the next election cycle.

District 18 serves Miami, Cass and Fulton counties, and portions of Carroll, Kosciusko and Marshall counties.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461172
Sat, 07 Sep 2019 12:51:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461172The final roster of candidates vying to fill the remainder of former State Senator Randy Head's term has been set.

The caucus will be held on Monday, September 9, 2019, at 6:30 p.m. at the Miami County 4-H Community Building located at 1029 W. 200 N., Peru, IN 46970.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with the caucus beginning at 6:30 p.m. A Facebook Live Stream will be available at www.facebook.com/indgop for members of the public who wish to watch the caucus live.

Caucus Process
The caucus will be presided over by Indiana Republican Party State Chairman Kyle Hupfer. Each candidate will be recognized in alphabetical order and given two minutes for someone to speak on their behalf as a way of introduction and three minutes to speak on their own behalf.

Votes cast will be done by secret ballot and tallied by two tellers designated by the State Chairman. Each candidate may designate one person to serve as a watcher on the candidate’s behalf during the tabulation of votes.

If a majority of 50 percent plus 1 of eligible voters present and voting is reached on the first ballot, a winner will be declared. If no candidate receives a majority vote on the first ballot, the person (or persons in the case of a tie) with the lowest number of votes will be dropped and a second ballot conducted. This process will continue until a candidate receives the required majority vote.

]]>The final roster of candidates vying to fill the remainder of former State Senator Randy Head's term has been set.

The caucus will be held on Monday, September 9, 2019, at 6:30 p.m. at the Miami County 4-H Community Building located at 1029 W. 200 N., Peru, IN 46970.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with the caucus beginning at 6:30 p.m. A Facebook Live Stream will be available at www.facebook.com/indgop for members of the public who wish to watch the caucus live.

Caucus Process
The caucus will be presided over by Indiana Republican Party State Chairman Kyle Hupfer. Each candidate will be recognized in alphabetical order and given two minutes for someone to speak on their behalf as a way of introduction and three minutes to speak on their own behalf.

Votes cast will be done by secret ballot and tallied by two tellers designated by the State Chairman. Each candidate may designate one person to serve as a watcher on the candidate’s behalf during the tabulation of votes.

If a majority of 50 percent plus 1 of eligible voters present and voting is reached on the first ballot, a winner will be declared. If no candidate receives a majority vote on the first ballot, the person (or persons in the case of a tie) with the lowest number of votes will be dropped and a second ballot conducted. This process will continue until a candidate receives the required majority vote.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461082
Fri, 06 Sep 2019 15:43:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461082On Monday night a candidate will be chosen at a Republican caucus to replace State Senator Randy Head in District 18. Rochester resident Amy Roe will be one of those candidates to be considered at the caucus in Peru.

Head stepped down to become Chief Deputy Prosecutor in Pulaski County.

Roe says public service has been her goal and this opportunity altered her plans somewhat.

Born and raised in Fulton County, Roe graduated from Rochester HS in 1998.

Locally, Roe has worked as Executive Director of the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce and President of Fulton County H.O.P.E. (Healing through Opportunity, Positivity and Empowerment).

Roe says running for the District 18 seat when election time comes may be something she considers whether chosen in this caucus or not.

The caucus will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, at the Miami County 4-H Community Building.
The individual selected at the September 9 caucus will fill the remainder of Sen. Randy Head's term.

]]>On Monday night a candidate will be chosen at a Republican caucus to replace State Senator Randy Head in District 18. Rochester resident Amy Roe will be one of those candidates to be considered at the caucus in Peru.

Head stepped down to become Chief Deputy Prosecutor in Pulaski County.

Roe says public service has been her goal and this opportunity altered her plans somewhat.

Born and raised in Fulton County, Roe graduated from Rochester HS in 1998.

Locally, Roe has worked as Executive Director of the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce and President of Fulton County H.O.P.E. (Healing through Opportunity, Positivity and Empowerment).

Roe says running for the District 18 seat when election time comes may be something she considers whether chosen in this caucus or not.

The caucus will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, at the Miami County 4-H Community Building.
The individual selected at the September 9 caucus will fill the remainder of Sen. Randy Head's term.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461081
Fri, 06 Sep 2019 15:38:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/461081The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has confirmed the first death of an Indiana resident due to severe lung injury linked to a history of e-cigarette use or “vaping.”

The death, which occurred in an individual older than age 18, was confirmed Sept. 5 as part of an investigation involving health officials at the local and federal levels and in surrounding states. No additional details about the patient will be provided due to privacy laws.

Indiana is investigating 30 cases of severe lung injury linked to vaping. Eight of those have been confirmed. The majority of the Indiana cases have occurred among individuals ages 16-29. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says more than 215 cases have been reported, with more under investigation.

“The tragic loss of a Hoosier and rising number of vaping-related injuries are warnings that we cannot ignore,” said State Health Commissioner Kris Box, M.D., FACOG. “We know that these products typically contain nicotine, which is highly addictive, and many cases report inhaling THC and other substances not available in commercial products. While it is unclear what substances are causing injury, when you use these products with other chemicals, you may not know everything that you’re inhaling and the harm it can cause.”

Dr. Box said many patients across the U.S. have developed severe symptoms that required emergency intervention and urged anyone who has vaped within the last 90 days and develops respiratory symptoms to stop using these products and see a healthcare professional immediately.

Symptoms can include:

Shortness of breath

Cough

Chest pain

Fatigue

Fever

Weight loss

Nausea

Abdominal pain

Diarrhea

ISDH is working with affected individuals and their families to obtain products used by the patients and send them to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for testing. At this time, no common substance has been identified in the Indiana cases.

The use of e-cigarettes, or vaping, among young people is a rising public health crisis across the U.S. The 2018 Indiana Youth Tobacco Survey (IYTS) found that vaping has increased 387 percent among high school students and 358 percent among middle school students since 2012 and that between 2016 and 2018, nearly 35,000 more Indiana students began using e-cigarettes.

In response, Dr. Box and Governor Eric J. Holcomb last week announced a $2 million plan to combat youth vaping that focuses on training and education for schools, parents and students, a youth-focused text-to-quit program and a statewide vaping awareness campaign.

Parents and educators who want to learn more about ways to protect Indiana youth from the dangers of vaping are urged to visit vapefreeindiana.isdh.in.gov.

For the latest on vaping-related injuries nationwide, visit the CDC website.

]]>The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has confirmed the first death of an Indiana resident due to severe lung injury linked to a history of e-cigarette use or “vaping.”

The death, which occurred in an individual older than age 18, was confirmed Sept. 5 as part of an investigation involving health officials at the local and federal levels and in surrounding states. No additional details about the patient will be provided due to privacy laws.

Indiana is investigating 30 cases of severe lung injury linked to vaping. Eight of those have been confirmed. The majority of the Indiana cases have occurred among individuals ages 16-29. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says more than 215 cases have been reported, with more under investigation.

“The tragic loss of a Hoosier and rising number of vaping-related injuries are warnings that we cannot ignore,” said State Health Commissioner Kris Box, M.D., FACOG. “We know that these products typically contain nicotine, which is highly addictive, and many cases report inhaling THC and other substances not available in commercial products. While it is unclear what substances are causing injury, when you use these products with other chemicals, you may not know everything that you’re inhaling and the harm it can cause.”

Dr. Box said many patients across the U.S. have developed severe symptoms that required emergency intervention and urged anyone who has vaped within the last 90 days and develops respiratory symptoms to stop using these products and see a healthcare professional immediately.

Symptoms can include:

Shortness of breath

Cough

Chest pain

Fatigue

Fever

Weight loss

Nausea

Abdominal pain

Diarrhea

ISDH is working with affected individuals and their families to obtain products used by the patients and send them to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for testing. At this time, no common substance has been identified in the Indiana cases.

The use of e-cigarettes, or vaping, among young people is a rising public health crisis across the U.S. The 2018 Indiana Youth Tobacco Survey (IYTS) found that vaping has increased 387 percent among high school students and 358 percent among middle school students since 2012 and that between 2016 and 2018, nearly 35,000 more Indiana students began using e-cigarettes.

In response, Dr. Box and Governor Eric J. Holcomb last week announced a $2 million plan to combat youth vaping that focuses on training and education for schools, parents and students, a youth-focused text-to-quit program and a statewide vaping awareness campaign.

Parents and educators who want to learn more about ways to protect Indiana youth from the dangers of vaping are urged to visit vapefreeindiana.isdh.in.gov.

For the latest on vaping-related injuries nationwide, visit the CDC website.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/460694
Thu, 05 Sep 2019 08:30:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/460694Cass County’s first female county commissioner is ready to run for Congress.

Indiana State Treasurer Kelly Mitchell has announced her intent to seek the Republican nomination for Congress in Indiana’s 5th Congressional District.

The 5th District takes the north side of Indianapolis as well as its eastern and northern suburbs, including Marion, Carmel, Anderson, Noblesville, Fishers, and parts of Kokomo. It’s currently represented by Susan Brooks.

Kelly was elected as the first female County Commissioner in Cass County and the youngest county commissioner in the state. She served two terms.

She was elected Indiana State Treasurer in 2014 and re-elected in 2018 with nearly 59 percent of the vote.

]]>Cass County’s first female county commissioner is ready to run for Congress.

Indiana State Treasurer Kelly Mitchell has announced her intent to seek the Republican nomination for Congress in Indiana’s 5th Congressional District.

The 5th District takes the north side of Indianapolis as well as its eastern and northern suburbs, including Marion, Carmel, Anderson, Noblesville, Fishers, and parts of Kokomo. It’s currently represented by Susan Brooks.

Kelly was elected as the first female County Commissioner in Cass County and the youngest county commissioner in the state. She served two terms.

She was elected Indiana State Treasurer in 2014 and re-elected in 2018 with nearly 59 percent of the vote.

Brandon Conner, 29, is charged with raping a woman in a bathroom at a home in the northeastern part of the county. The probable cause affidavit states the woman told Conner to stop. The woman says Conner made another attempt later she was able to fend off. The report of the incident was made in March.

Back in the spring of 2011 Indiana State Police reported Conner, then 20 years old, was arrested on charges of rape and sexual misconduct with a minor. The report stated that Conner invited a 14-year-old girl to his home and wouldn’t let her leave while committing sexual acts.

The plea agreement in that case convicted Conner of sexual misconduct while dropping a felony count of rape.

]]>A North Judson man has been charged with rape in Fulton County.

Brandon Conner, 29, is charged with raping a woman in a bathroom at a home in the northeastern part of the county. The probable cause affidavit states the woman told Conner to stop. The woman says Conner made another attempt later she was able to fend off. The report of the incident was made in March.

Back in the spring of 2011 Indiana State Police reported Conner, then 20 years old, was arrested on charges of rape and sexual misconduct with a minor. The report stated that Conner invited a 14-year-old girl to his home and wouldn’t let her leave while committing sexual acts.

The plea agreement in that case convicted Conner of sexual misconduct while dropping a felony count of rape.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/460570
Wed, 04 Sep 2019 14:04:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/460570Indiana State Police issued the following information related to the search for a missing Gas City girl:

About 3:00 am Wednesday the four day search for missing 10-year-old Skylea Carmack came to a tragic end. Skylea’s body was located in a shed behind her Gas City home. She was hidden inside a plastic trash bag.

Amanda Carmack, 34, was arrested for the murder of Skylea Carmack, neglect of a dependent resulting in death, domestic battery resulting in death, and strangulation. She is currently incarcerated at the Grant County Jail. Amanda Carmack was Skylea’s step mother.

Preliminary evidence indicates Skylea was killed approximately between the hours of 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., on Saturday, August 31. Preliminary evidence indicates she was strangled. An autopsy will be conducted to verify her cause of death.

The Indiana State Police was assisted by multiple law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and community volunteers during the search for Skylea. The various agencies provided equipment, manpower, intelligence gathering, and a host of other needed resources in an effort to find her. The agencies are too many to list in a press release, but their assistance was greatly appreciated.

ORIGINAL RELEASE - September 1, 2019

A Statewide Silver Alert has been declared.

The Indiana State Police is investigating the disappearance of Skylea Rayn Carmack, a 10 year old white female, 5 feet tall, 100 pounds, blonde hair with blue eyes, last seen wearing a black shirt with Mario and Luigi, black pants with red design or cherries, teal high top tennis shoes and may be carrying a pink backpack, blanket with puzzle pieces on it and a pillow. Skylea may answer to Sky or Boog.

Skylea is missing from Gas City, Indiana which is 78 miles northeast of Indianapolis and was last seen on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at 4:00 pm. She is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance.

If you have any information on Skylea Rayn Carmack, contact the Indiana State Police at 765-473-6666, Gas City Police Department at 765-674-2278 or 911.

]]>Indiana State Police issued the following information related to the search for a missing Gas City girl:

About 3:00 am Wednesday the four day search for missing 10-year-old Skylea Carmack came to a tragic end. Skylea’s body was located in a shed behind her Gas City home. She was hidden inside a plastic trash bag.

Amanda Carmack, 34, was arrested for the murder of Skylea Carmack, neglect of a dependent resulting in death, domestic battery resulting in death, and strangulation. She is currently incarcerated at the Grant County Jail. Amanda Carmack was Skylea’s step mother.

Preliminary evidence indicates Skylea was killed approximately between the hours of 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., on Saturday, August 31. Preliminary evidence indicates she was strangled. An autopsy will be conducted to verify her cause of death.

The Indiana State Police was assisted by multiple law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and community volunteers during the search for Skylea. The various agencies provided equipment, manpower, intelligence gathering, and a host of other needed resources in an effort to find her. The agencies are too many to list in a press release, but their assistance was greatly appreciated.

ORIGINAL RELEASE - September 1, 2019

A Statewide Silver Alert has been declared.

The Indiana State Police is investigating the disappearance of Skylea Rayn Carmack, a 10 year old white female, 5 feet tall, 100 pounds, blonde hair with blue eyes, last seen wearing a black shirt with Mario and Luigi, black pants with red design or cherries, teal high top tennis shoes and may be carrying a pink backpack, blanket with puzzle pieces on it and a pillow. Skylea may answer to Sky or Boog.

Skylea is missing from Gas City, Indiana which is 78 miles northeast of Indianapolis and was last seen on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at 4:00 pm. She is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance.

If you have any information on Skylea Rayn Carmack, contact the Indiana State Police at 765-473-6666, Gas City Police Department at 765-674-2278 or 911.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/460364
Tue, 03 Sep 2019 20:09:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/460364More than two dozen people were arrested on the Tippecanoe River by law enforcement in Pulaski County.

Indiana Conservation Officers did a patrol along the river, after receiving numerous complaints about a large group of people littering and doing other criminal activity. Officers found the large group of people, all under the age of 21, floating on tubes and drinking alcohol.

The Pulaski County Sheriff's Department and the Winamac Police Department were called in to help, and they arrested 27 people, all charged with minor consumption of alcohol.

ne person was also charged with possession of marijuana.

They were all taken to the Pulaski County Jail.

]]>More than two dozen people were arrested on the Tippecanoe River by law enforcement in Pulaski County.

Indiana Conservation Officers did a patrol along the river, after receiving numerous complaints about a large group of people littering and doing other criminal activity. Officers found the large group of people, all under the age of 21, floating on tubes and drinking alcohol.

The Pulaski County Sheriff's Department and the Winamac Police Department were called in to help, and they arrested 27 people, all charged with minor consumption of alcohol.

ne person was also charged with possession of marijuana.

They were all taken to the Pulaski County Jail.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/460325
Tue, 03 Sep 2019 15:09:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/460325A dead man found on the road has the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department looking for answers and requesting the public’s help.

Just before 5:00 am Monday the Kosciusko County 911 Communications Center received a call regarding an unresponsive man lying on McKenna Road near EMS B32 Lane.

The location is near JT’s Lakeside Campground.

The victim has been identified as Ty Sawyer Lee Brown, 20, of Indianapolis. The manner and cause of Brown’s death are currently pending the results of an autopsy conducted at the Northeast Indiana Forensic Center.

It’s been determined that the Brown left Barbee Landing on foot about 2:30 am.

Brown is described as 6 feet tall, 140 pounds with black hair and hazel eyes.

Anyone with information or who lives in the area with home security footage is asked to call Detective Sergeant Josh Spangle or Detective Neil Likens at 574-267-5667.

]]>A dead man found on the road has the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department looking for answers and requesting the public’s help.

Just before 5:00 am Monday the Kosciusko County 911 Communications Center received a call regarding an unresponsive man lying on McKenna Road near EMS B32 Lane.

The location is near JT’s Lakeside Campground.

The victim has been identified as Ty Sawyer Lee Brown, 20, of Indianapolis. The manner and cause of Brown’s death are currently pending the results of an autopsy conducted at the Northeast Indiana Forensic Center.

It’s been determined that the Brown left Barbee Landing on foot about 2:30 am.

Brown is described as 6 feet tall, 140 pounds with black hair and hazel eyes.

Anyone with information or who lives in the area with home security footage is asked to call Detective Sergeant Josh Spangle or Detective Neil Likens at 574-267-5667.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459915
Fri, 30 Aug 2019 16:38:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459915Two separate death investigations, by Indiana State Police detectives, resulted in two inmates from the Miami Correctional Facility being charged with murder.

On May 19, 2019, Indiana State Police Detective Michelle Jumper initiated an investigation, at the request of the Miami Correctional Facility, into the death of prison inmate Richard Carrell, 56.

Carrell was found deceased in his C Unit cell by a correctional officer. A subsequent autopsy revealed that Carrell’s cause of the death was asphyxia by strangulation. The manner of death was homicide. During the course of the investigation, probable cause was developed for a Miami Superior Court I arrest warrant to be issued for prison inmate Michael Parrish, 42. The warrant alleged a single charge of murder.

Parrish was Carrell’s cellmate.

On June 10, 2019, Indiana State Police Detectives initiated an investigation, at the request of the Miami Correctional Facility, into the death of prison inmate Lannie Morgan, 70. Morgan was found by correctional staff not breathing in his cell. Despite life saving measures, Morgan died at Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru.

A subsequent autopsy revealed that Morgan’s cause of the death was asphyxia due to smothering/occlusion of the nasal/oral cavities. The manner of death was homicide. During the course of the investigation, probable cause was developed for a Miami Superior Court I arrest warrant to be issued for prison inmate Phillip Sadler, 53. The warrant alleged a single charge for murder. Sadler also resided in the I Unit cell house, but he was not Morgan’s roommate.

Detectives were assisted in both investigations by staff members from the Miami Correctional Facility.

]]>Two separate death investigations, by Indiana State Police detectives, resulted in two inmates from the Miami Correctional Facility being charged with murder.

On May 19, 2019, Indiana State Police Detective Michelle Jumper initiated an investigation, at the request of the Miami Correctional Facility, into the death of prison inmate Richard Carrell, 56.

Carrell was found deceased in his C Unit cell by a correctional officer. A subsequent autopsy revealed that Carrell’s cause of the death was asphyxia by strangulation. The manner of death was homicide. During the course of the investigation, probable cause was developed for a Miami Superior Court I arrest warrant to be issued for prison inmate Michael Parrish, 42. The warrant alleged a single charge of murder.

Parrish was Carrell’s cellmate.

On June 10, 2019, Indiana State Police Detectives initiated an investigation, at the request of the Miami Correctional Facility, into the death of prison inmate Lannie Morgan, 70. Morgan was found by correctional staff not breathing in his cell. Despite life saving measures, Morgan died at Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru.

A subsequent autopsy revealed that Morgan’s cause of the death was asphyxia due to smothering/occlusion of the nasal/oral cavities. The manner of death was homicide. During the course of the investigation, probable cause was developed for a Miami Superior Court I arrest warrant to be issued for prison inmate Phillip Sadler, 53. The warrant alleged a single charge for murder. Sadler also resided in the I Unit cell house, but he was not Morgan’s roommate.

Detectives were assisted in both investigations by staff members from the Miami Correctional Facility.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459914
Fri, 30 Aug 2019 16:34:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459914The Fulton County Sheriff’s Department is using Facebook to ask the public’s help in a case.

Students arrived at an area building trades job site this week to find their job trailer broken into. The trailer was damaged and most of the tools stolen. Several thousands of dollars in equipment was taken including cordless drills, air nailers, compressors, air hoses, saws, and ladders.

Most of these items were engraved “CBT” or “Culver Building Trades” so they would be easy to identify.

Anyone with any information is asked to feel free to message or contact Kyle Elliott at Culver High School, or you can contact the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department.

]]>The Fulton County Sheriff’s Department is using Facebook to ask the public’s help in a case.

Students arrived at an area building trades job site this week to find their job trailer broken into. The trailer was damaged and most of the tools stolen. Several thousands of dollars in equipment was taken including cordless drills, air nailers, compressors, air hoses, saws, and ladders.

Most of these items were engraved “CBT” or “Culver Building Trades” so they would be easy to identify.

Anyone with any information is asked to feel free to message or contact Kyle Elliott at Culver High School, or you can contact the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459913
Fri, 30 Aug 2019 16:32:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459913Governor Eric J. Holcomb today announced that Indiana farmers are eligible for assistance under a secretarial natural disaster designation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

This was in response to a letter Gov. Holcomb sent to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue in July, requesting assistance due to the excessive rain and flooding farmers experienced during planting season.

“I am grateful that Secretary Perdue and his team recognized the hardships Hoosier farmers experienced this planting season,” Gov. Holcomb said. “As a result of this designation, farmers in all 92 counties are now eligible for assistance, and I encourage those impacted to work with their local Farm Service Agency office.”

Seventy-four counties were designated as primary natural disaster areas. USDA deferred its decision on the remaining 18 counties. However, since they border one or more of the primary disaster areas, they are considered contiguous disaster counties – allowing farm operators in those areas to be eligible for the same assistance.

Under a secretarial natural disaster designation, farm operators in primary and contiguous counties are eligible for assistance from the Farm Service Agency, provided certain requirements are met. This includes access to low-interest FSA emergency loans, which may be used to: restore or replace essential property, pay all or part of production costs associated with the disaster year, pay essential family living expenses, reorganize the farming operation, and refinance certain debts.

In order to qualify, farm operators must show at least a 30 percent loss in crop production or a physical loss to livestock, livestock products, real estate or chattel property. Farmers can borrow up to 100 percent of actual production or physical losses to a maximum amount of $500,000, according to USDA.

“This has been an unprecedented year for Indiana farmers,” said Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “I applaud Governor Holcomb, the Indiana Farm Service Agency and our state department of agriculture for making this assistance available.”

In addition to emergency loans, farmers with existing FSA loans, who are unable to make their payments, may be eligible to have certain payments deferred. Farmers are encouraged to work with their local FSA office for assistance regarding payment forbearance or emergency disaster loans.

“Farmers, who have been doing this their entire lives, acknowledge this has been one of the toughest seasons on record, and we’re not in the clear yet,” said Bruce Kettler, Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director. “While we know this isn’t a cure-all solution, this assistance is welcome news and will help those severely impacted.”

For a list of Farm Service Agency offices in Indiana, click here or visit www.fsa.usda.gov, or click here for more information about FSA’s Emergency Farm Loans. Deadline to apply for emergency loans is April 29, 2020.

]]>Governor Eric J. Holcomb today announced that Indiana farmers are eligible for assistance under a secretarial natural disaster designation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

This was in response to a letter Gov. Holcomb sent to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue in July, requesting assistance due to the excessive rain and flooding farmers experienced during planting season.

“I am grateful that Secretary Perdue and his team recognized the hardships Hoosier farmers experienced this planting season,” Gov. Holcomb said. “As a result of this designation, farmers in all 92 counties are now eligible for assistance, and I encourage those impacted to work with their local Farm Service Agency office.”

Seventy-four counties were designated as primary natural disaster areas. USDA deferred its decision on the remaining 18 counties. However, since they border one or more of the primary disaster areas, they are considered contiguous disaster counties – allowing farm operators in those areas to be eligible for the same assistance.

Under a secretarial natural disaster designation, farm operators in primary and contiguous counties are eligible for assistance from the Farm Service Agency, provided certain requirements are met. This includes access to low-interest FSA emergency loans, which may be used to: restore or replace essential property, pay all or part of production costs associated with the disaster year, pay essential family living expenses, reorganize the farming operation, and refinance certain debts.

In order to qualify, farm operators must show at least a 30 percent loss in crop production or a physical loss to livestock, livestock products, real estate or chattel property. Farmers can borrow up to 100 percent of actual production or physical losses to a maximum amount of $500,000, according to USDA.

“This has been an unprecedented year for Indiana farmers,” said Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “I applaud Governor Holcomb, the Indiana Farm Service Agency and our state department of agriculture for making this assistance available.”

In addition to emergency loans, farmers with existing FSA loans, who are unable to make their payments, may be eligible to have certain payments deferred. Farmers are encouraged to work with their local FSA office for assistance regarding payment forbearance or emergency disaster loans.

“Farmers, who have been doing this their entire lives, acknowledge this has been one of the toughest seasons on record, and we’re not in the clear yet,” said Bruce Kettler, Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director. “While we know this isn’t a cure-all solution, this assistance is welcome news and will help those severely impacted.”

For a list of Farm Service Agency offices in Indiana, click here or visit www.fsa.usda.gov, or click here for more information about FSA’s Emergency Farm Loans. Deadline to apply for emergency loans is April 29, 2020.

Just after 1:30 am, a speeding vehicle was southbound on US 31 and failed to yield for an officer attempting to make a traffic stop. The driver fled from authorities before running over stop sticks at the Indiana State Highway Garage, near CR 50N and Meridian Road. The vehicle was stolen from Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Four people ran from the scene into a cornfield. A juvenile male was caught and released to his parents.

In another incident a short time later a suspect vehicle nearly collided with two police vehicles while trying to flee an attempted traffic stop. The pursuit proceeded southbound on U.S. 31 from Fulton into Miami County at speeds over 100 mph. The suspect vehicle drove thru deployed stop sticks into Cass County. The suspect finally lost control and was stopped following more stop sticks helping to end the pursuit.

Ebony Williams, 19, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, was taken to Woodlawn Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. He was initially charged with auto theft, resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, reckless driving, operating a vehicle while never licensed, possession of marijuana and false identity statement.

]]>Two pursuits, two arrests Tuesday.

Just after 1:30 am, a speeding vehicle was southbound on US 31 and failed to yield for an officer attempting to make a traffic stop. The driver fled from authorities before running over stop sticks at the Indiana State Highway Garage, near CR 50N and Meridian Road. The vehicle was stolen from Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Four people ran from the scene into a cornfield. A juvenile male was caught and released to his parents.

In another incident a short time later a suspect vehicle nearly collided with two police vehicles while trying to flee an attempted traffic stop. The pursuit proceeded southbound on U.S. 31 from Fulton into Miami County at speeds over 100 mph. The suspect vehicle drove thru deployed stop sticks into Cass County. The suspect finally lost control and was stopped following more stop sticks helping to end the pursuit.

Ebony Williams, 19, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, was taken to Woodlawn Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. He was initially charged with auto theft, resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, reckless driving, operating a vehicle while never licensed, possession of marijuana and false identity statement.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459490
Wed, 28 Aug 2019 20:00:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459490It’s the kind of exercise and practice that emergency responders hope they never have to bring to life in a real scenario. A radioactive disaster is the focus of over a hundred personnel Thursday in Rochester.

Four northern Indiana EMA’s will base operations in Rochester for the event.

Rochester Fire Chief Tom Butler explains the city’s role within the geography of the staged exercise.

He notes several locations will be involved.

]]>It’s the kind of exercise and practice that emergency responders hope they never have to bring to life in a real scenario. A radioactive disaster is the focus of over a hundred personnel Thursday in Rochester.

Four northern Indiana EMA’s will base operations in Rochester for the event.

Rochester Fire Chief Tom Butler explains the city’s role within the geography of the staged exercise.

He notes several locations will be involved.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459486
Wed, 28 Aug 2019 18:43:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459486The Rochester City Council held a public hearing on the 2020 budget during its regular meeting Tuesday.

Clerk - Treasurer Shoda Beehler summarizes the numbers.

Beehler explains where the budget process goes from here.

]]>The Rochester City Council held a public hearing on the 2020 budget during its regular meeting Tuesday.

Clerk - Treasurer Shoda Beehler summarizes the numbers.

Beehler explains where the budget process goes from here.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459481
Wed, 28 Aug 2019 17:49:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/459481Rochester's city-owned and operated golf course is coming under scrutiny as part of budget preparation by the mayor and city council.

Mayor Ted Denton says the Round Barn Golf Club at Mill Creek has never been a moneymaker and now they're looking for ways to cut back losses to the city.

Mayor Denton says the basic operating costs, notably chemicals, can be the most expensive part of the budget.

Increases in wages for golf course employees also impacted the budget.

Mayor Denton says efforts are also going to be made to find more golfers and more revenue. The course has seen revenue dip in recent years.

]]>Rochester's city-owned and operated golf course is coming under scrutiny as part of budget preparation by the mayor and city council.

Mayor Ted Denton says the Round Barn Golf Club at Mill Creek has never been a moneymaker and now they're looking for ways to cut back losses to the city.

Mayor Denton says the basic operating costs, notably chemicals, can be the most expensive part of the budget.

Increases in wages for golf course employees also impacted the budget.

Mayor Denton says efforts are also going to be made to find more golfers and more revenue. The course has seen revenue dip in recent years.

The Lady Zebras played from behind much of the night. Rochester overcame Game 2 deficits of 14-8 and 22-19. And in the third and final game Triton jumped out to an 8-1 lead and still led 16-9 before Rochester rallied to tie it at 17 apiece and then took the lead for good at 20-19.

Head coach Erin Leap says she wouldn’t mind a quicker start out of the blocks.

Junior Kaitlin Rogers led Rochester with 12 kills, three blocks and three serving aces.

Rochester is 3-4 on the season and will host Culver Academies on Thursday.

Triton falls to 1-2.

]]>Rochester held off visiting Triton in volleyball action Monday night for a 25-15, 25-23, 25-21 victory.

The Lady Zebras played from behind much of the night. Rochester overcame Game 2 deficits of 14-8 and 22-19. And in the third and final game Triton jumped out to an 8-1 lead and still led 16-9 before Rochester rallied to tie it at 17 apiece and then took the lead for good at 20-19.

Head coach Erin Leap says she wouldn’t mind a quicker start out of the blocks.

Junior Kaitlin Rogers led Rochester with 12 kills, three blocks and three serving aces.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/458876
Mon, 26 Aug 2019 10:27:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/458876Multiple public access sites in Indiana will close for repairs while projects at other sites have been completed and are back open.

Access sites closed for repairs are:

Wabash Public Access Site in Wabash will be temporarily closed for ramp repairs starting Aug. 26. Repairs are expected to take approximately one week.

Laughery Creek Public Access Site near Dillsboro will be temporarily closed for reconstruction from Aug. 26 through Sept. 5. The closest alternate access site during this period will be the Tanners Creek Public Access Site near Lawrenceburg.

Spice Valley Public Access Site near Williams will be temporarily closed for paving operations until Sept. 5. Alternate access sites are available downstream at Williams Dam Public Fishing Area and upstream at the Bedford Public Access Site.

Newly reopened sites include Ashby Pit on Sugar Ridge Fish & Wildlife Area And Loon Pit on Blue Grass Fish & Wildlife Area. These sites have newly updated boat launch sites and are open to the public. The older concrete launch ramps at these sites were removed and replaced with updated concrete slab ramps.

]]>Multiple public access sites in Indiana will close for repairs while projects at other sites have been completed and are back open.

Access sites closed for repairs are:

Wabash Public Access Site in Wabash will be temporarily closed for ramp repairs starting Aug. 26. Repairs are expected to take approximately one week.

Laughery Creek Public Access Site near Dillsboro will be temporarily closed for reconstruction from Aug. 26 through Sept. 5. The closest alternate access site during this period will be the Tanners Creek Public Access Site near Lawrenceburg.

Spice Valley Public Access Site near Williams will be temporarily closed for paving operations until Sept. 5. Alternate access sites are available downstream at Williams Dam Public Fishing Area and upstream at the Bedford Public Access Site.

Newly reopened sites include Ashby Pit on Sugar Ridge Fish & Wildlife Area And Loon Pit on Blue Grass Fish & Wildlife Area. These sites have newly updated boat launch sites and are open to the public. The older concrete launch ramps at these sites were removed and replaced with updated concrete slab ramps.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/458848
Mon, 26 Aug 2019 09:12:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/458848A Warsaw Police press release states the accident involved a front-end loader. It appears the front-end loader was operating in reverse when another employee was struck. The accident caused a catastrophic head injury and the victim was pronounced dead at the scene by the coroner.

The deceased has been identified as Cedric Barnett, 31, Elkhart.

Currently investigators believe this to be an accidental death as there is no evidence of foul play. The coroner has scheduled an autopsy as is standard in a workplace accident involving death.

The investigation continues and at the time of this release, representatives of OSHA were on the way to the scene to conduct their investigation.

Thomas Patrick Lanham, 54, of Leesburg, was the operator of the front-end loader. Lanham also is an employee of Meade and is cooperating with the investigation.

]]>A Warsaw Police press release states the accident involved a front-end loader. It appears the front-end loader was operating in reverse when another employee was struck. The accident caused a catastrophic head injury and the victim was pronounced dead at the scene by the coroner.

The deceased has been identified as Cedric Barnett, 31, Elkhart.

Currently investigators believe this to be an accidental death as there is no evidence of foul play. The coroner has scheduled an autopsy as is standard in a workplace accident involving death.

The investigation continues and at the time of this release, representatives of OSHA were on the way to the scene to conduct their investigation.

Thomas Patrick Lanham, 54, of Leesburg, was the operator of the front-end loader. Lanham also is an employee of Meade and is cooperating with the investigation.

Shortly before 3:00 pm, a Kosciusko County Sheriff's Deputy observed a 2011 Ford Fiesta, driven by Walter David Hawthorne, 44, of Nappanee, pass two vehicles at a high rate of speed, in a no passing zone. Hawthorne's vehicle was eastbound on Armstrong Road, in the area of CR 450 E at the time of the offense. The deputy activated his emergency lights and attempted to perform a traffic stop. Hawthorne continued eastbound on Armstrong Road (which becomes CR 500 N), and refused to stop for the marked patrol vehicle.

The stop light was red as Hawthorne approached State Road 13, in excess of 100 mph. The Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department says Hawthorne continued through the intersection, striking a southbound 2013 Ram 2500, driven by Joshua Shepherd, 36, of North Webster.

Shepherd's vehicle then struck a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu, driven by Christopher Ousley, 34, of Leesburg. The Malibu was stopped facing northbound on State Road 13, prior to the crash. After the collision with the Ram, Ousley's vehicle overturned, trapping him within the car.

The deputy immediately called for assistance and began to render aid to the injured parties. Units responded from the North Webster Police and Fire Departments, Pierceton Police Department and the Turkey Creek Fire Territory.

Hawthorne was airlifted from the scene by the Parkview Samaritan Air Ambulance and was conscious and alert at the time of this press release.

Ousley was extricated from the Malibu by the North Webster Fire Department and was transported from the scene, with a complaint of neck pain.

Ousley's front seat passenger, Loretta Ousley, 62, of Leesburg, was transported from the scene to a Fort Wayne hospital, with a facial injury.

Shepherd did not complain of injuries.

This crash remains under investigation by the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Office Fatal Team.

]]>Three people were transported from a crash scene after a Nappanee man fled authorities Thursday afternoon.

Shortly before 3:00 pm, a Kosciusko County Sheriff's Deputy observed a 2011 Ford Fiesta, driven by Walter David Hawthorne, 44, of Nappanee, pass two vehicles at a high rate of speed, in a no passing zone. Hawthorne's vehicle was eastbound on Armstrong Road, in the area of CR 450 E at the time of the offense. The deputy activated his emergency lights and attempted to perform a traffic stop. Hawthorne continued eastbound on Armstrong Road (which becomes CR 500 N), and refused to stop for the marked patrol vehicle.

The stop light was red as Hawthorne approached State Road 13, in excess of 100 mph. The Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department says Hawthorne continued through the intersection, striking a southbound 2013 Ram 2500, driven by Joshua Shepherd, 36, of North Webster.

Shepherd's vehicle then struck a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu, driven by Christopher Ousley, 34, of Leesburg. The Malibu was stopped facing northbound on State Road 13, prior to the crash. After the collision with the Ram, Ousley's vehicle overturned, trapping him within the car.

The deputy immediately called for assistance and began to render aid to the injured parties. Units responded from the North Webster Police and Fire Departments, Pierceton Police Department and the Turkey Creek Fire Territory.

Hawthorne was airlifted from the scene by the Parkview Samaritan Air Ambulance and was conscious and alert at the time of this press release.

Ousley was extricated from the Malibu by the North Webster Fire Department and was transported from the scene, with a complaint of neck pain.

Ousley's front seat passenger, Loretta Ousley, 62, of Leesburg, was transported from the scene to a Fort Wayne hospital, with a facial injury.

Shepherd did not complain of injuries.

This crash remains under investigation by the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Office Fatal Team.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/458036
Tue, 20 Aug 2019 23:14:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/458036An inmate has been apprehended near Indianapolis after escaping near Starke Hospital in Knox.

The Starke County inmate, Bradley Smith, 32, was captured about eight hours after news of his escape was released to the public. The public was warned not to try and apprehend Smith.

Smith was being held at the Starke County Jail on charges of battery or battery by bodily waste against a public safety official, resisting law enforcement and disorderly conduct.

]]>An inmate has been apprehended near Indianapolis after escaping near Starke Hospital in Knox.

The Starke County inmate, Bradley Smith, 32, was captured about eight hours after news of his escape was released to the public. The public was warned not to try and apprehend Smith.

Smith was being held at the Starke County Jail on charges of battery or battery by bodily waste against a public safety official, resisting law enforcement and disorderly conduct.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/458035
Tue, 20 Aug 2019 22:45:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/458035Multiple drug related arrests made by NET 43 included the recovery of thousands of dollars of tools and lawn equipment.

Johnny McCrory reports.

Daniels

Rodgers

M. Howard

Thompson

T. Howard

]]>Multiple drug related arrests made by NET 43 included the recovery of thousands of dollars of tools and lawn equipment.

Johnny McCrory reports.

Daniels

Rodgers

M. Howard

Thompson

T. Howard

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/457779
Mon, 19 Aug 2019 21:56:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/457779A Rochester attorney has thrown his hat into the ring for the District 18 Senate seat.

Brian Fitzwater says he saw an opportunity with departure of Randy Head who announced his retirement from the state senate in late July and became Chief Deputy Prosecutor for Pulaski County.

Fitzwater says local highway issues are among concerns he sees in the area.

He believes his background in the law, as well as politics, are a positive.

Fitzwater joins announced candidates including:

Rochester resident Amy Roe, former executive director of the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce and current president of Fulton County H.O.P.E.

The Republican caucus is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., on September 9 at the Miami County 4-H Community Building in Peru. The person chosen by the caucus will finish the remainder of Head’s term through 2020, serving Cass, Fulton and Miami counties and portions of Carroll, Kosciusko and Marshall counties.

]]>A Rochester attorney has thrown his hat into the ring for the District 18 Senate seat.

Brian Fitzwater says he saw an opportunity with departure of Randy Head who announced his retirement from the state senate in late July and became Chief Deputy Prosecutor for Pulaski County.

Fitzwater says local highway issues are among concerns he sees in the area.

He believes his background in the law, as well as politics, are a positive.

Fitzwater joins announced candidates including:

Rochester resident Amy Roe, former executive director of the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce and current president of Fulton County H.O.P.E.

The Republican caucus is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., on September 9 at the Miami County 4-H Community Building in Peru. The person chosen by the caucus will finish the remainder of Head’s term through 2020, serving Cass, Fulton and Miami counties and portions of Carroll, Kosciusko and Marshall counties.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/457778
Mon, 19 Aug 2019 21:51:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/457778NIPSCO is getting underway with cleanup of a former gas plant property in Rochester.

NIPSCO has announced the expansion of an environmental study and addressing on-site issues at its vacant property at the northwest intersection of 8th Street and Indiana Avenue.

NIPSCO says it has an ongoing program to study former sites where gas was historically manufactured to learn what environmental impacts may have occurred. Based on available historical site information, a manufactured gas plant operated on Eighth Street from around 1906 until 1930.

NIPSCO has coordinated its study in consultation with IDEM and the City of Rochester. Plans are to clean the site and prepare it for potential redevelopment down the road.

The first stage of work involves digging out the below ground contents / rubble of a former manufactured gas holder and replacing this area with clean fill. This will allow for the installation of a new natural gas main at the site.

During the second phase of work, NIPSCO will retire an old gas main and remove remaining contaminated soils and replace them with clean soils. In addition, the company will be collecting more soil and groundwater samples. The results will guide decisions on the need for further investigation and / or additional cleanup. NIPSCO will be working at the site and in adjacent, city-owned, right-of- way areas through the remainder of 2019, weather permitting.

The company will try to minimize construction impacts to the neighborhood during this work. Neighbors will still notice an increase in noise and truck traffic on weekdays between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm.

People in the area may also notice an occasional odor of tar or mothballs. Air monitoring will be conducted during work activities to ensure the safety and protection of the workers and surrounding community.

The site is already surrounded by a fence with a locked gate and this will not change. Construction trucks will enter and exit the site from Indiana Avenue.

]]>NIPSCO is getting underway with cleanup of a former gas plant property in Rochester.

NIPSCO has announced the expansion of an environmental study and addressing on-site issues at its vacant property at the northwest intersection of 8th Street and Indiana Avenue.

NIPSCO says it has an ongoing program to study former sites where gas was historically manufactured to learn what environmental impacts may have occurred. Based on available historical site information, a manufactured gas plant operated on Eighth Street from around 1906 until 1930.

NIPSCO has coordinated its study in consultation with IDEM and the City of Rochester. Plans are to clean the site and prepare it for potential redevelopment down the road.

The first stage of work involves digging out the below ground contents / rubble of a former manufactured gas holder and replacing this area with clean fill. This will allow for the installation of a new natural gas main at the site.

During the second phase of work, NIPSCO will retire an old gas main and remove remaining contaminated soils and replace them with clean soils. In addition, the company will be collecting more soil and groundwater samples. The results will guide decisions on the need for further investigation and / or additional cleanup. NIPSCO will be working at the site and in adjacent, city-owned, right-of- way areas through the remainder of 2019, weather permitting.

The company will try to minimize construction impacts to the neighborhood during this work. Neighbors will still notice an increase in noise and truck traffic on weekdays between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm.

People in the area may also notice an occasional odor of tar or mothballs. Air monitoring will be conducted during work activities to ensure the safety and protection of the workers and surrounding community.

The site is already surrounded by a fence with a locked gate and this will not change. Construction trucks will enter and exit the site from Indiana Avenue.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/456716
Tue, 13 Aug 2019 08:51:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/456716Indiana Republican Party Chairman Kyle Hupfer has officially called a caucus of eligible precinct committee members to fill the upcoming vacancy in the office of Senate District 18. The seat is currently held by Sen. Randy Head, whose resignation from the Indiana Senate will be effective August 12, 2019.

The caucus will be held at 6:30 p.m. ET, on Monday, September 9, 2019, at the Miami County 4-H Community Building, which is located at 1029 W. 200 N., Peru, IN 46970.

The individual selected at the September 9 caucus will fill the remainder of Sen. Randy Head's term.

"Senator Head's service will be greatly missed both at the Statehouse and across Cass, Fulton, Miami, Carroll, Kosciusko and Marshall counties," said Hupfer. "He's been a leader on criminal justice issues -- especially when it comes to protecting children -- and attacking Indiana's drug epidemic."

Individuals interested in running in the caucus should contact the Indiana Republican Party Secretary at dzagone@indiana.gop to ensure they file the proper forms prior to the deadline, which is 72 hours prior to the vote. The caucus will be open to credentialed media who pre-register to Holly Lawson at hlawson@indiana.gop prior to 5:00 p.m. ET on Friday, September 6.

A Facebook Live Stream will be available at www.facebook.com/indgop for members of the public who wish to watch the caucus live. More details regarding caucus procedures and candidates will be released after the filing deadline.
]]>Indiana Republican Party Chairman Kyle Hupfer has officially called a caucus of eligible precinct committee members to fill the upcoming vacancy in the office of Senate District 18. The seat is currently held by Sen. Randy Head, whose resignation from the Indiana Senate will be effective August 12, 2019.

The caucus will be held at 6:30 p.m. ET, on Monday, September 9, 2019, at the Miami County 4-H Community Building, which is located at 1029 W. 200 N., Peru, IN 46970.

The individual selected at the September 9 caucus will fill the remainder of Sen. Randy Head's term.

"Senator Head's service will be greatly missed both at the Statehouse and across Cass, Fulton, Miami, Carroll, Kosciusko and Marshall counties," said Hupfer. "He's been a leader on criminal justice issues -- especially when it comes to protecting children -- and attacking Indiana's drug epidemic."

Individuals interested in running in the caucus should contact the Indiana Republican Party Secretary at dzagone@indiana.gop to ensure they file the proper forms prior to the deadline, which is 72 hours prior to the vote. The caucus will be open to credentialed media who pre-register to Holly Lawson at hlawson@indiana.gop prior to 5:00 p.m. ET on Friday, September 6.

A Facebook Live Stream will be available at www.facebook.com/indgop for members of the public who wish to watch the caucus live. More details regarding caucus procedures and candidates will be released after the filing deadline.
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Mon, 12 Aug 2019 15:00:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/456588The Fulton County HSE Program (former GED program) has launched a new program.

Free practice TASC readiness tests and individualized training to help students be successful is being offered. Instructors are available Monday and Wednesday evenings and Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

For more information, you can stop by the Rochester Learning Center, 1820 Park Road, or call 574-223-1600 ext. 6.

]]>The Fulton County HSE Program (former GED program) has launched a new program.

Free practice TASC readiness tests and individualized training to help students be successful is being offered. Instructors are available Monday and Wednesday evenings and Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

For more information, you can stop by the Rochester Learning Center, 1820 Park Road, or call 574-223-1600 ext. 6.

]]>http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/456586
Mon, 12 Aug 2019 14:54:00 -0500http://wroifm.com/wroi-news/456586A weekend statewide AMBER Alert was canceled after the suspect involved turned himself in with the children.

No other details have been released about the Starke County alert from the town of Hamlet.

The Hamlet Police Department requested the activation of an AMBER Alert early Saturday.

The listed victims were Ayden Mendez, 7 years old, and Yulianna Mendez, 3 years old.

The suspect was Francisco Javier Mendez, 28.

]]>A weekend statewide AMBER Alert was canceled after the suspect involved turned himself in with the children.

No other details have been released about the Starke County alert from the town of Hamlet.

The Hamlet Police Department requested the activation of an AMBER Alert early Saturday.

The listed victims were Ayden Mendez, 7 years old, and Yulianna Mendez, 3 years old.